If you have a sweet tooth and love comforting desserts, you are going to adore this Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe. This classic treat features creamy, tender rice infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla, all brought together with the richness of three milks. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and silky, a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this Mexican Rice Pudding will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe, the ingredient list is delightfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. These simple pantry staples combine to create something truly special and comforting.
- 2 Cups white rice: The star of the dish, this provides the soft, tender base for the pudding.
- 4 Cups water: Used for cooking the rice until perfectly soft and fluffy.
- 2 Cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the pudding.
- 14 Ounces sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens and thickens the pudding for that luscious texture.
- 12 Ounces evaporated milk: Contributes to the smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
- 1 cinnamon stick: Infuses the dish with a warm, comforting spice note.
- 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a fragrant aroma.
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon: Perfect for sprinkling on top to finish the dish with a burst of flavor.
How to Make Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Start by placing the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinsing it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps prevent the pudding from becoming overly sticky.
Step 2: Cook the Rice with Cinnamon
Next, combine the rinsed rice, cinnamon stick, and water in a large saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes. Stir gently every now and then to keep the rice from sticking to the pan, but be careful not to over-stir and break the grains.
Step 3: Add the Milks and Flavoring
Once the rice is tender, remove the cinnamon stick and add the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Cook the mixture for another 15 minutes on low heat while stirring gently. You’ll notice the pudding starting to thicken beautifully.
Step 4: Let the Pudding Rest
After cooking, take the pudding off the heat and allow it to sit. This resting time lets the pudding thicken even further and develop the perfect creamy consistency that makes Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and results in a dessert that’s both refreshing and comforting.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe at room temperature or cold. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a handful of raisins on top adds the perfect finishing touch to bring out all the warm flavors.
How to Serve Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this pudding from delicious to unforgettable. A light dusting of ground cinnamon adds a fragrant warmth, while plump raisins introduce a pleasant chewiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy rice.
Side Dishes
This pudding can shine on its own or be part of a larger Mexican-inspired meal. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like mango or strawberries for a refreshing contrast, or alongside spicy dishes to balance out bold flavors with its sweet creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this pudding in small mason jars for a charming, rustic presentation. Layering it with toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds beautiful texture and flavor depth that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Freezing
While freezing rice pudding is possible, it may slightly change the texture, making it less creamy. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and plan to consume within two months for the best quality.
Reheating
When you want to enjoy leftovers warm, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir often to prevent sticking and heat just until warm to maintain its luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other short-grain or medium-grain rice varieties, but traditional white rice gives the best texture and creaminess for Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the milks with coconut milk or any plant-based milk and use sweetened condensed coconut milk available in most stores for a lovely non-dairy version.
How sweet is this pudding? Can I adjust the sugar?
The sweetened condensed milk provides plenty of sweetness, but if you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the amount or omit any additional sweeteners you might consider adding.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Yes, feel free to add raisins, chopped nuts, or even a zest of lime to make the dish your own. Cinnamon is classic, but nutmeg or cardamom also work beautifully.
What’s the best way to serve this pudding?
Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe is delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Top it with cinnamon, fresh fruit, or even a drizzle of honey for a perfect finish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and nostalgic about making and sharing Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe. Its creamy texture, warm cinnamon notes, and sweet richness make it a dessert that always brings smiles around the table. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite dessert that feels like home in every bite.
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Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 0 minutes preparation + 1 hour chilling = 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Mexican Rice Pudding, or Arroz Con Leche, is a comforting and creamy dessert made with tender white rice cooked in a mixture of whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk, flavored gently with cinnamon and vanilla. This classic Mexican treat is slow-cooked to perfection on the stovetop until thick and luscious, then chilled to enhance its rich flavors. Perfect served cold or at room temperature, it’s a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth with a traditional twist.
Ingredients
Rice and Liquid Base
- 2 Cups white rice
- 4 Cups water
- 2 Cups whole milk
- 14 Ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 12 Ounces evaporated milk
Flavorings
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 Teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping during cooking.
- Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, cinnamon stick, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat slightly, cooking for about 30 to 35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, being careful not to break the rice grains. Cook until the rice is fully softened.
- Add milks and flavorings: Once the rice is tender, stir in the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Continue to cook the mixture on medium heat for an additional 15 minutes, stirring often until the pudding thickens noticeably.
- Rest the pudding: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the pudding to sit undisturbed for a few minutes. This resting phase helps it thicken further.
- Cool and refrigerate: Transfer the pudding to a serving dish or individual bowls. Let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill fully.
- Serve: Serve the arroz con leche at room temperature or cold. Optionally, sprinkle extra ground cinnamon on top or add raisins for additional texture and flavor.
Notes
- Stir gently while cooking rice to avoid breaking grains and maintain texture.
- Use whole milk for creaminess; you can substitute with lactose-free or plant-based milks if needed, but flavor and texture may vary.
- For a richer pudding, do not skip the sweetened condensed and evaporated milk.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; best enjoyed chilled.
- Optionally garnish with raisins or a dash of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
